Moving Guide

Moving to Italy involves a specific sequence of administrative steps that build on each other. Each step unlocks the next — skipping or reordering them creates delays and complications. Embrace the process, stay organised, and keep copies of every document.

Shipping household goods to Italy is practical for longer moves. EU citizens face no customs duties; non-EU citizens importing personal effects benefit from customs exemption (esenzione doganale) if the items have been owned for more than 6 months and the importer is genuinely establishing Italian residency.

EU driving licences are valid in Italy indefinitely. Non-EU licences must be exchanged for an Italian licence within one year of establishing residency. Bringing pets to Italy from within the EU is straightforward; from outside the EU requires additional preparation including an EU health certificate and, in some cases, rabies titration testing.

Beyond the formal bureaucracy, dozens of practical steps make the difference between a stressful move and a smooth one. Key early actions — finding a good commercialista and a medico di base — pay dividends throughout your Italian life.